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Michelle’s Story

Michelle’s struggle with homelessness has been a long one, building on an already difficult life of abuse and addiction. In spite of the traumas she has faced in life, and those that she continually faces, she is a gracious and caring soul who is trying to create a better life for herself and for the homeless community that she cares so much about. Although her crack addiction contributed to her experience of homelessness, now clean for a year, her felony charges of cocaine possession, prostitution, and tampering with evidence keep her largely unemployable, and medical conditions hinder her ability to help herself.

Throughout Sarasota, there are undeveloped parcels of land where many homeless set up camps. Unable to find enough work or other means of paying rent, their choices of places to rest are limited. Open to the elements, they are always vulnerable to attack and property damage, and they are at the behest of property owners, the railroad companies, and law enforcement officers to pack up their stuff and move on at a moments notice.

Michelle and her boyfriend Sty, a Haitian immigrant, have recently been told to vacate the premises where they have found security for the last year. We are seeking help in the way of a safe place to store their belongings, a place for them to stay, and an employer that will empower them to achieve a higher standard of living. They both have experience in the food and beverage industry, but are open to expanding their skills.

If you would like to help, call Steve at 941-914-3934, or you can contribute toward a storage unit and a stay at a halfway house through the Home Free Project by writing “Michelle” in the comment box.